At Page Turners Make Great Learners, we believe that all children find themselves when they are lost in the pages of a book. In the company of beloved literary characters, mythical heroes, historical giants, or even evil archvillains, children learn about themselves and who they can choose to become. In this time of civil unrest, books have the power to enlighten, to change perspectives and to heal the wounds of hate and division. This is why Page Turners’ work is more important today than ever before.
Through our in-school book clubs, book donations and author visits, Page Turners strives to introduce children to diverse cultures and view points. For the vast majority of the students we serve, books are a luxury their families can seldom afford. More than 90% of these students are Black. Most of the books they read in school, while of undisputed literary value, do not feature characters who look like them or whose experience mirrors theirs.
Given the current civil unrest in our nation, we believe it is vital to introduce Black authors, characters, and texts to both Black and non-Black parents and children. We hope the titles listed below will spark productive conversations about racism and prejudice and lead to greater empathy, understanding and harmony.
We welcome your thoughts about these books and would love to hear more about the discussions you are having with your families and friends. You can share them on our social media platforms via LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
What affects Black communities, affects us all.
All American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely
Dear Martin by Nic Stone
Slay by Brittany Morris
The Skin I’m In by Sharon Flake
Stamped by Jason Reynolds and Dr. Ibram X. Kendi
Blended by Sharon Draper
Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson
Genesis Begins Again by Alicia D. Williams
Parker Looks Up by Parker Curry and Jessica Curry
Infinite Hope by Ashley Bryan
Love by Matt de la Pena
Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Pena
The Black Kids by Christina Hammonds Reed
Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Crown by Derrick Barnes
New Kid by Jerry Craft
